It is important for products to undergo electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing to ensure they function correctly in their intended electromagnetic environment without causing intolerable interference to other devices in that environment[3][7]. If a product isn't properly tested for EMC, it could experience performance degradation, malfunction, or complete failure when exposed to electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources like power lines or nearby electronics[1]. Additionally, products that generate harmful electromagnetic emissions can interfere with other electronic devices, potentially causing damage or malfunctions[1].
Here's why EMC testing is particularly crucial:
* Ensuring product safety EMC testing protects users by ensuring product safety[7].
* Preventing issues It helps prevent costly recalls and product redesigns[7].
* Meeting standards EMC testing is essential to meet the standards required for global sales[7].
* Managing risk EMC testing is critical for managing risk, especially in sensitive areas like medical device manufacturing, where devices must work together without interference[9].
* Automotive components In the automotive industry, EMC testing is necessary to validate the performance of components like engine control units and infotainment systems, ensuring they don't interfere with other onboard systems[5].
EMC testing typically involves emissions testing to measure the EMI emitted by a device and immunity testing to measure the device's ability to withstand EMI from external sources[1][11]. The tests are performed in specialized laboratory settings, such as an EMC test chamber or open-area test sites (OATS), according to EMC standards[1].
Citations:[1] https://www.emc-directory.com/community/what-is-emc-testing-why-is-it-important
[2] https://www.ti.com/lit/pdf/slyy064
[3] https://blog.clevercompliance.io/electrical-product-compliance/what-is-emc-testing/
[4] https://www.st.com/resource/en/application_note/an901-emc-guidelines-for-microcontrollerbased-applications-stmicroelectronics.pdf
[5] https://www.all-about-industries.com/testing-validation-emc-performance-automotive-industry-a-53cad52d64923f86cbd4124756abebae/
[6] https://www.emcbayswater.com.au/blog/emc-testing/the-effects-of-table-material-on-radiated-field-strength-measurement-reproducibility-at-open-area-test-sites/
[7] https://www.compeng.com.au/emc-testing-unveiled/
[8] https://emcfastpass.com/avoid-the-most-common-failures-with-these-7-essential-emc-design-rules/
[9] https://www.com-power.com/blog/why-emi-emc-testing-necessary
[10] https://www.compeng.com.au/important-things-about-emc-test-equipment/
[11] https://www.com-power.com/blog/top-benefits-pre-compliance-emc-testing
[12] https://emcfastpass.com/emc-testing-beginners-guide/emissions/